Target Audience:
Owners, restorers, and mechanics working on the iconic 1966 Chevrolet Corvette.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential, in-depth technical information to maintain, repair, and restore the 1966 Corvette accurately, offering significant cost savings over dealer-exclusive information.
Manual Features:
Authoritative technical data, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting guides, and comprehensive specifications essential for authentic restoration and maintenance.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all 327 cubic inch V8 engine variants (e.g., L79, L30, L72 where applicable).
Transmission:
Coverage for manual (Muncie 4-speed) and automatic (Powerglide 2-speed) transmissions, including disassembly, reassembly, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear suspension (including independent rear suspension components), universal joints, driveshaft, rear axle assembly.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, front disc brakes (power assisted), rear drum brakes, parking brake system, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system (distributor, coils, spark plugs), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor(s) (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet, Holley for L72), fuel tank, emissions control systems (if applicable).
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, heater core.
Steering:
Steering box, power steering system (if equipped), steering linkage, steering column.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, weatherstripping, convertible top mechanisms, frame inspection, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Heater system operation and repair, defroster.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues across all systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system fault finding, suspension and brake system checks.
Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, carburetor rebuilding.
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed specifications, tolerances, and procedures.
Engine Type:
V8, overhead valve (OHV)
Displacement:
327 cubic inches (5.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
4.00 in x 3.25 in (101.6 mm x 82.55 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by model (e.g., 10.5:1 for L30, 11.0:1 for L79)
Horsepower:
Varies by model (e.g., 275 HP for L30, 350 HP for L79, 400 HP for L72 - L72 may have been dropped or limited availability in '66).
Torque:
Varies by model (e.g., 350 lb-ft for L30, 380 lb-ft for L79)
Carburetor:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel (standard), Holley 4-barrel (L79, L72).
Ignition System:
Conventional breaker point ignition, Delco-Remy distributor.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium octane required (91+ RON).
Fuel Pump:
Mechanical fuel pump.
Timing Specifications:
Refer to manual for specific engine variant timing settings (e.g., 6 degrees Before Top Dead Center - BTDC for L30).
Standard Transmission:
Muncie SM465 4-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
General Motors Powerglide 2-speed automatic transmission.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (manual transmission).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Dexron III/Mercon (for Powerglide, though original spec may have been different, consult manual for exact OEM recommendation and modern equivalents).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
GL-4 Gear Oil (for Muncie 4-speed manual).
Crash Test Data:
No standardized crash test data available for this era (e.g., NHTSA NCAP).
Braking System:
Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes.
Parking Brake:
Mechanical parking brake, acting on rear wheels.
Seat Belts:
Standard lap belts. Shoulder belts may have been optional.
Windshield:
Laminated safety glass windshield.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months. Consult manual for precise recommendations based on driving conditions.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, condenser replacement typically every 10,000-12,000 miles. Distributor cap and rotor inspection/replacement as needed.
Lubrication Points:
Chassis lubrication (grease fittings) typically every 1,000 miles or 6 months, covering ball joints, tie rod ends, universal joints, etc.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API CD or later service classification oil recommended. Viscosity may vary based on ambient temperature. Consult manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change. Check manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Common Problems:
Carburetor adjustment issues, ignition system tune-up, vacuum leaks, aging rubber components (hoses, seals), potential for oil leaks (rear main seal, valve covers), differential seal leaks.
Restoration Considerations:
Check for frame rust, fiberglass repairs, electrical wiring integrity, and condition of weatherstripping due to age.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of performance vehicles, with the Corvette being its flagship sports car since 1953.
C2 Sting Ray Era:
The 1966 Corvette is part of the iconic C2 generation (1963-1967), known for its groundbreaking styling by Larry Shinoda and its independent rear suspension.
Manufacturing Location:
St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Production Volume 1966:
Approximately 27,766 Corvettes produced in 1966.
